We’re excited to introduce you to our August Volunteer of the Month, Sophia Pelosi! Sophia has volunteered with 826NYC’s Write Together Workshops for the past two school years.

826NYC: How did you first get involved with 826NYC and why did you decide to volunteer?

My previous boss/mentor/friend Liza Demby introduced me to 826NYC. I was looking for something writing-related to get involved in outside of work, and this felt like the perfect mix of things I love to do: tell stories, work with kids, and have fun! 

826NYC: What’s your favorite part of 826NYC?

Witnessing students pull wonderful, weird, brilliant stories out of their brains. Like, where are they getting this stuff? It’s so awesome. Imagination is a muscle, and watching them work reminds me to exercise mine!

826NYC: What’s your favorite part of supporting workshops (such as the Adam Rubin workshop)?

I studied creative writing in college, but I forget the basics all the time. My favorite part of supporting these workshops is seeing kids take the building blocks of writing (the fundamental stuff you kinda throw out the window at some point) and turn ‘em into smart, funny, thoughtful work. 

Also, just how bright these kids are. I was floored when a room full of fourth graders knew what Murphy’s Law is—and even more floored by the stories they wrote that put it into action!

826NYC: What do you do when you’re not at 826NYC?

I love to cook, write, do yoga, and craft! I’ve been really into making sardine-can dioramas lately. 

826NYC: What advice would you give a new volunteer?

Start counting how many main characters are named Bob on day one. I’ve lost track and wish I had the stats! 

826NYC: What are your superpowers?

Balancing spoons on my chin.

Want to support our students this summer? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today!